A Net Zero home reduces your environmental footprint

By Carmen Wyton
April 27, 2018

When purchasing a newly built home, you may discuss ways to make it more comfortable and energy efficient with your builder. This would ultimately lead to discussions about windows, insulation and furnaces. These are all great areas to look at for a more energy-efficient home but what can you do if you’re still looking to take a step further?

This is where you can take an intentional step towards reducing your environmental footprint by building a Net Zero home.

Net Zero Homes

Quite simply, a Net Zero home produces as much energy as it consumes. Net Zero homes are up to 80 per cent more energy efficient than a home built to conventional standards and use renewable energy systems such as solar electric panels to produce the remaining energy the home needs.

Benefits of Net Zero

The first benefit that comes to mind when considering a Net Zero home is utility bills. Living in a home that produces as much energy as it uses will significantly drop your utility bills and will keep them low all year round, creating savings over time. You will also be protected against any future energy price increases, which can give you peace of mind.

To meet Net Zero levels of performance, your home will be built using advanced construction methods and materials. Net Zero homes are tightly built with a better insulated roof, walls and windows to help make them as energy efficient as possible. As an added bonus, these materials will also drastically reduce outside noise.

Exceptional heating, cooling and ventilation equipment will deliver even temperatures, creating a more comfortable home. A built-in filtered fresh air system will reduce drafts, dust, pollen and outdoor air pollution for exceptional air quality.

All the features of a Net Zero home work together to keep you comfortable and to deliver outstanding energy performance.

Cost

Building a Net Zero home will likely cost you more than building a conventional home. However, significant advancements over the past 10 years have reduced additional costs by as much as 50 per cent. And don’t forget you will save on utility costs for a lifetime!

To learn more about the cost of a Net Zero home and to find a qualified builder, visit the Canadian Home Builders’ Association website at chba.ca

About Carmen Wyton

Carmen Wyton is the former CEO, Building Industry and Land Development Alberta Association (BILD Alberta), the unified voice for the land development, home building and renovation industry in Alberta.

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